Special Night Viewing of Autumn Leaves at Rikugien Gardens
Rikugien Garden, one of Tokyo's most beautiful traditional Japanese gardens, opens its gates for a special night viewing event during peak autumn colors. This rare opportunity allows visitors to experience the historic garden transformed by dramatic illuminations and light projections.
The Experience
The gardens undergo a magical transformation at night, with carefully placed lighting highlighting the vivid red and gold autumn foliage. The centerpiece of the event features stunning reflections of illuminated maple trees on the pond's still surface, creating a mirror-like effect that photographers and nature lovers treasure.
Light projections dance across the historic storehouse walls, adding a contemporary artistic element to the traditional garden setting. The combination of natural beauty and artistic illumination creates an unforgettable atmosphere.
Event Details
Dates: November 28 – December 9, 2025
Evening Hours: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM (last admission at 7:30 PM)
Note: The garden closes temporarily at 5:00 PM and reopens at 6:30 PM specifically for the night viewing event.
Admission: ¥1,000 (tax included)
Two ticket types are available:
- Advance online tickets (recommended to avoid sold-out dates)
- Same-day tickets at the gate (subject to availability)
Highlights
- Illuminated Maple Trees: Over 560 trees create a canopy of autumn colors
- Pond Reflections: The mirror-like pond surface doubles the visual impact
- Light Projections: Artistic installations on historic structures
- Traditional Garden Views: Experience the Edo-period garden design at night
- Photography Opportunities: Perfect lighting conditions for memorable photos
Tips for Visitors
- Arrive early as the event is very popular and may reach capacity
- Advance tickets are highly recommended, especially on weekends
- Bring a camera or smartphone for photography (tripods may be restricted)
- Dress warmly as November and December evenings can be quite cold
- The garden paths are illuminated but wear comfortable walking shoes
Access
Nearest Stations:
- Komagome Station (JR Yamanote Line) - 7 minute walk
- Sengoku Station (Toei Mita Line) - 10 minute walk
Facilities
The garden offers:
- Baby changing facilities
- Wheelchair loans available
- Breast feeding room
- Accessible pathways (some areas may have limitations)
About Rikugien Garden
Originally created in 1702, Rikugien is considered one of Tokyo's most beautiful examples of an Edo-period strolling garden. The name means "Garden of the Six Principles of Poetry," and the landscape was designed to evoke scenes from classical Japanese poetry.